Hymn to Maa Lakshmi

A hymn that contrasts the strength of Shri Narayana with his love for Maa Lakshmi. Inspired by Neeli Meghamulalo.

Black and white image depicting Maa Lakshmi seated on Shri Narayana’s lap. Image taken off web.

Jai Shri Achyuta

The foremost in the art of archery,

whose enemies may never strike his limbs,

has yet succumbed to jasmine arrows sent

with gentle speed from the sugar cane bow.

The one who’s all attractive and whose charm

surpasses that of the chrysanthemum

has been ensnared by the sway of your hips,

much like the way a graceful river flows.

The one whose virtues are unsparingly

extolled by pious sages who, like bees,

are deeply drinking from the lotus feet

is still desirous of your words of praise.

The one who’s the companion in this life

and is the path and destination too

has found himself entangled in your eyes

and lost inside the chasm of your gaze.

The one who answers to an infinite

amount of names and does not prefer one

outwardly still is partial to the name

which calls him as beloved to your heart.

The one who holds the universe inside,

who’s omnipotent, all pervasive, still

is incomplete without you. Though he is

the whole, without you, there’s a missing part.

The one who cuts down evil beings with

a single thought, you are that thought which, like

a scythe does cut the weeds, does help preserve

the world and helps prosperity to thrive.

The one who rules all fourteen worlds and does

not flinch though heavy be the weight he holds

has bent his head to tie your anklet and

with narrowed eyes, a proper knot contrive.

The essence of all scripture and all rite,

the source of knowledge and the fountain of

all language still is rendered speechless when

your sweet melodic voice like silk cascades.

The one whose eyes and feet are lotus-like,

who’s often so compared and worshipped so

has plucked the blushing blossoms from his heart

and slyly woven them into your braid.

And thus, O Queen of Queens, do not despair

in notions false of power you afford,

for though he rules all moving thing and those

unmoving too, it’s you who rules the Lord.